]]>Line of sight windshield navigation image projection is making its way into cars and Garmin just launched such an application.

Garmin announced HUD, the company’s first portable head-up display for smartphone navigation apps.

HUD allows drivers to view navigation information in the car, projecting crisp and bright directions onto a transparent film on the windshield or an attached reflector lens. Garmin said that by providing road guidance at a glance and right within the driver’s line of sight, HUD can help increase safety and reduce driver distraction.

“HUD redefines the navigation experience by allowing drivers to find their way without taking their eyes off the road,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of worldwide sales. “Head-up displays currently have their place in select high-end cars, but HUD makes this technology available as an aftermarket accessory for any vehicle, at an affordable price.”

The company said that HUD offers more navigation details than other portable head-up displays, yet presents them in a simplified way that doesn’t divert the driver’s attention from the road. The directions are easy to follow and allow drivers to navigate even the most challenging interchanges and traffic situations with ease.

HUD displays turn arrows, distance to the next turn, current speed and speed limit, as well as estimated time of arrival. It even lets drivers know what lane to be in for the next maneuver and alerts them when they exceed the speed limit. HUD also warns users of potential traffic delays and upcoming safety camera locations.

The display automatically adjusts the brightness level so projections are clearly visible in direct sunlight or at night.

Complementing the visual display, spoken turn-by-turn directions are provided simultaneously by a compatible Garmin or Navigon app, either through the smartphone speaker or a Bluetooth-connected car stereo.

Music streamed to the car stereo from the smartphone will automatically fade out for turn-by-turn voice prompts.